Wednesday, February 13, 2008

The Feb. 7 news story, "Crack Sentencing Reductions Decried" outlined the Justice Department's concern regarding the possibility of violent crime perpetrated by released drug offenders.

The connection between drug abuse and crime is well known, and research shows that enforced abstinence, if it occurs in prison, does not "cure" a person addicted to drugs. The best hope for that is treatment, which is why I was disappointed that this article failed to highlight the proven value of providing treatment in the criminal justice system.

Research shows that treatment within the criminal justice system, particularly when followed by care during the transition back to the community, reduces drug abuse and criminal recidivism. Treatment offers the best alternative for interrupting the vicious cycle of drug abuse and crime -- improving not just public health but public safety as well.

NORA D. VOLKOW

Director, National Institute on Drug Abuse

National Institutes of Health

Rockville